Studies show that children who sit in on family meals eat healthier diets and perform better in school, according to Amanda Scott, an AgriLife Extension program specialist in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education program.

"Research shows that compared to children who seldom participate in family meals, children who sit down to regular family meals consume more fruits, vegetables and fiber, consume less soda and fried foods, and eat less heart-damaging saturated and trans fats," she said. "Families who eat together also have more time and opportunities to communicate and build relationships, and these children tend to perform better academically."